My commission client wanted a dragon, but couldn't decide between 'cute' or 'terrifying'

I had to pick a direction before starting the 20-hour piece. I went with cute, giving it big eyes and a little bow tie. The final piece looked like a puppy that could accidentally breathe fire. They loved it, but now their D&D group is arguing because the 'Big Bad' looks too huggable. Has anyone else had a client's vague idea turn into a weird art debate?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_thomas2mo ago

Yeah, that's the worst... when the client loves it but the group doesn't. Been there.

johnh822mo agoMost Upvoted

My last client's "mysterious forest" sketch started a three-hour lore argument.

gavin_allen481mo ago

Oh man, the D&D lore debate is a classic. You think you're just making a picture and suddenly you've started a war over canon. That sounds exhausting but also kind of funny if you're not the one in the middle of it. At least you delivered what the client asked for, which is more than most artists can say when the brief is that loose. Hopefully they figure out whether the dragon is a hugger or a burner before the next session.